December Avenue is set to mark a major milestone with their first-ever major concert on August 30 at the Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena.
Known for their deeply relatable lyrics and memorable melodies, the five-piece band has earned a loyal fanbase and made significant contributions to the OPM (Original Pilipino Music) landscape.
The band, composed of Zel Bautista, Jem Manuel, Don Gregorio, Gelo Cruz, and Jet Danao, has become a household name with hits like ‘Eroplanong Papel,’ ‘Bulong,’ ‘Sa Ngalan ng Pag-ibig,’ and ‘Huling Sandali (Tayo Sa Huling Buwan).’ Their collaboration with Moira Dela Torre on the track ‘Kung ‘Di Rin Lang Ikaw’ gained massive popularity as the theme song for the 2019 blockbuster film ‘Hello, Love, Goodbye,’ starring Kathryn Bernardo and Alden Richards.
December Avenue’s influence in the music industry was solidified in 2019 when they were named Spotify’s Most Streamed Artist in the Philippines. Their album ‘Langit Mong Bughaw’ also became the Most-Streamed OPM Album of All Time, highlighting their widespread appeal.
The upcoming concert, titled ‘Sa Ilalim Ng Mga Bituin: December Avenue Concert,’ promises to deliver an unforgettable experience for fans. Directed by Paulo Valenciano, the show aims to elevate the emotional connection fans have with December Avenue’s music through a more immersive and visually enhanced performance.
Valenciano, reflecting on the band’s journey, expressed pride in their achievements, stating, “They deserve this. Their commitment to the quality of their music, their music videos, and the live experience of December Avenue is impressive.”
The concert has already sold out, with demand so high that a new standing room only (SRO) section was opened to accommodate more fans eager to witness this milestone event.
December Avenue’s journey to success was not without challenges. In their early days, the band struggled financially, often paying out of their own pockets to perform at small venues. Despite the hardships, their passion for music kept them going. Lead vocalist Zel Bautista recalled how they had to overcome the stereotype that being in a band wasn’t a viable career.
Guitarist Jem Manuel noted that these early struggles helped build a strong bond within the group. “The good thing about it is the chemistry we built. So, whether we were performing for one person or thousands, our energy remained the same,” Manuel shared.
As their popularity grew, the band members eventually left their day jobs to focus solely on their music. A turning point came in 2016 when they sold out a show at Teatrino, which gave them the confidence to continue pursuing their dreams full-time.
December Avenue has received numerous accolades over the years, including the 2020 Silver Wishclusive Elite Circle for the songs ‘Sa Ngalan Ng Pag-ibig’ and ‘Kung Di Rin Lang Ikaw,’ the Best Song Written for Movie-TV at the 33rd Awit Awards for ‘Huling Sandali,’ and the Most Popular Recording/Performing Group at the 51st Box Office Entertainment Awards. They were also recognized as the Most Influential OPM Band of the Year at the EdukCircle Awards in 2019 and received Rock Artist of the Year and Rock Album of the Year honors at the 12th Philippine Movie Press Club (PMPC) Star Awards for Music for ‘Langit Mong Bughaw.’
At the upcoming concert, fans will be treated to a special performance of an unreleased track titled ‘Magparaya,’ inspired by the personal heartbreak of drummer Jet Danao. The song, which reflects on the painful process of letting go of someone you love, will officially be released at midnight on August 31, adding yet another emotional layer to the band’s repertoire.
As December Avenue continues to ascend in the music industry, they remain deeply connected to their passion for creating music that resonates with their listeners.
